Study Tips

The Mapping Method

A method that uses comprehension/concentration skills and evolves in a note taking form which relates each fact or idea to every other fact or idea. Mapping is a graphic representation of the content of a lecture. It is a method that maximizes active participation, affords immediate knowledge as to its understanding, and emphasizes critical thinking.

Advantages

Helps you visually track your lecture regardless of conditions.

Relationships can easily be seen.

Easy to edit your notes by adding numbers, marks, and color coding.

Review will call for you to restructure thought processes, which will reinforce your understanding.

Main points can be written on flash or note cards and pieced together into a table or larger structure at a later date.

Disadvantages

You might not hear changes in content from major points to facts.

When to Use

When the lecture content is heavy and well-organized.

When you have a guest lecturer and have no idea how the lecture is going to be presented.

Example

Study Tip #2

The Cornell Method

The Cornell Method provides a systematic format for condensing and organizing notes without laborious recopying. After writing the notes in the main space, use the left-hand space to label each idea and detail with a key word or “cue” and the bottom space for summarization.